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Effect of Upper Extremity Support on Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait in Individuals With Stroke
Sponsor: Ankara Yildirim Beyazıt University
Summary
Purpose: The primary goal of this study is to investigate how different levels of upper extremity (arm) support affect walking patterns in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Specifically, the research aims to determine how restricting or facilitating arm swing during walking modulates spatiotemporal gait parameters (such as speed, step length, and rhythm). Background: Arm swing plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, stability, and energy efficiency during normal walking. Following a stroke, many patients use walking aids (like canes or walkers) or clinical supports (like parallel bars) that restrict natural arm movement. This study examines whether these restrictions significantly alter gait mechanics in the stroke population. Methodology: Participants will participate in a cross-over experimental trial. Each participant will walk on a specialized treadmill system (C-Mill VR+) under three randomized conditions: 1. Unsupported walking (no arm support), 2. Single-arm support (using the non-paretic side), 3. Dual-arm support (using both arms). Researchers will record gait speed, step length, cadence, and duration of stance/swing phases for each condition. Expected Outcome: The findings will provide scientific evidence on how different support strategies modulate walking performance. This information will help physical therapists design more effective, individualized rehabilitation programs to improve mobility and quality of life for stroke survivors.
Official title: The Effect of Upper Extremity Support Usage on Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters in Individuals With Stroke: A Prospective Cross-over Experimental Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
34
Start Date
2026-04-01
Completion Date
2026-12-31
Last Updated
2026-03-27
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
C-Mill VR+ (Force-plate integrated treadmill)
Description: A treadmill system equipped with integrated force plates and augmented reality (VR) capabilities. It records spatiotemporal gait data at a 500 Hz sampling frequency. In this study, the device is used to measure gait parameters under different upper extremity support conditions.
No Support Protocol
The standardized protocol of walking under no support: Natural walking with free arm swing. Each trial lasts 2 minutes with mandatory rest periods to prevent fatigue.
Unilateral Support Protocol
The standardized protocol of walking under unilateral support: Holding the handrail with the non-paretic hand. Each trial lasts 2 minutes with mandatory rest periods to prevent fatigue.
Bilateral Support Protocol
The standardized protocol of walking under bilateral support: Holding the handrails with both hands. Each trial lasts 2 minutes with mandatory rest periods to prevent fatigue.
Locations (1)
Ankara Bilkent City Hospital
Ankara, Turkey (Türkiye)